Habitat and Ecology
​Sobralia macrophylla, commonly known as the Large-Leafed Sobralia, is a stout, reed-stemmed terrestrial or epiphytic orchid with a vast native range across Central and South America, spanning from Costa Rica and Panam7a to Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and the Amazonian regions of Brazil. It is 7alo⁷ng riversides and near waterfalls, at lo⁷ŕŕwer elevations, typically between 100 and 1,000 metres. This orchid thrives in hot, humid conditions, growing in rich organic debris or on tree trunks where it benefits from constantly moist roots and high ambient humidity.
​Description
​This is a medium-sized orchid that forms dense, caespitose (clump-forming) specimens of thin, erect, cane-like stems, typically reaching 60-80 cm in height. The species name macrophylla accurately describes its large leaves; the leaves are lanceolate to ovate-elliptic, plicate (pleated), thin, and can be 12-18 cm long, positioned alternately along the upper part of the stem. The flowers are terminal, emerging singly from the stem apex in succession. The blooms are large (10-12 cm across) and showy, typically cream-white to pale yellow. The lip (labellum) is a contrasting shape, large, trumpet-shaped, and often wavy and fringed, with the throat sometimes showing hints of yellow or subtle colouration. Like many Sobralia species, the flowers are ephemeral (lasting only a day), but the plant produces a succession of blooms over a long period.
​Cultivation
​Sobralia macrophylla is a warm-growing orchid that requires constant warmth and moisture. It needs bright, indirect light; it can handle some early morning sun but must be shaded from harsh midday and afternoon light. It should be grown in a large container using an organically rich, very moisture-retentive, yet fast-draining terrestrial mix, such as coir, fine bark, and synthetic peat. The substrate must be kept consistently moist year-round—it is extremely sensitive to drying out. High humidity (70-80%) is crucial, along with good air circulation.
​Optimal Daytime Temperature:
 25-32 C (77-90) F)
​Optimal Nighttime Temperature: A small drop is beneficial, ideally 18-20 C (64-68 F).
​Feed regularly (weekly during the active growing season) with a balanced liquid fertiliser to support its vigorous growth. Avoid repotting as Sobralias are highly prone to root disturbance.
​Unique Features
​This Sobralia is prized for its robust, structural, reed-like growth and its exceptionally large, elegant leaves that provide a lush, tropical backdrop. Although the individual flowers are short-lived, the plant's ability to produce a succession of large, creamy, fragrant blooms over the warmer months makes a mature specimen a spectacular, almost continuous focal point. Its large size and preference for warmth make it ideal for the floor of a large, warm conservatory or greenhouse.
​Specifications
​Plant Size: 3+ active stems with some leaves 
​Plant Family: Orchidaceae
​Plant Passport: A Sobralia macrophylla B 140084 C [user input using the numbers supplied Plant label D GB